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NASL Miami FC

Miami FC Set to Host New York Cosmos

May 5, 2016 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Miami FC News Release


Across the Border

The Miami FC fell to the Ottawa Fury, last week, in the franchise's first trip to Canada.

The early goings were tightly contested with the Miami FC nearly taking the lead twice thanks to an active Dane Richards.

In just three minutes into the match, Richards ripped a shot from well inside the penalty area but it was blocked at the last second. In the 15th minute, a Richards cross was deflected towards the goal but the own goal was saved by a header from an Ottawa defender.

Before halftime, the Fury took advantage of a scrabble in the Miami FC box and were able to squeeze a shot past Miami FC goalie Daniel Vega to go up 1-0.

Ottawa would fall back into a defensive shell in the second half, playing 10-11 men behind the ball at all times.

The Miami FC created a few chances in the second half but could not find an equalizer, falling to the Fury 2-0.

The Boys are Back In Town

The Miami FC offense was missing two of its main cogs against the Fury last week, in Dario Cvitanich and Ariel Martinez.

From the attacking midfield position, Martinez has been a nightmare for opposing backlines. Martinez can hit a long range shot or deliver a perfect pass at any time, always keeping defenders guessing.

Through four matches, Martinez has distributed the ball 191 times, acting as the team's free kick and corner specialist. In attack, he has taken a team-high nine shots, including a left-footed golazo against Rayo OKC.

Cvitanich has been a game changer since day one for the Miami FC. Cvitanich is tied for the league-lead in goals after finding the back of the net in three of the four matches that he has played in. If not for multiple tight offside calls his tally would be much higher.

He has been deadly efficient in front of the goal this season, needing only four shots to score his three goals. He has also done a great job of putting the Miami FC in dangerous positions, drawing 10 fouls in the attacking third.

The two veterans look to be back in the lineup against the Cosmos.

Players to Watch

In two starts this season, center back Rhett Bernstein has played well. He's been strong on the ground and in the air, winning 3-3 air duels and 6-7 ground duels.

He has also registered six clearances and an impressive eight interceptions. The club hopes his steady presence will help stabilize the Miami FC backline.

There is a lot to be said about Cvitanich and his current form for the Miami FC. Four matches into his NASL career he leads the league in goals and was named to the first NASL Team of the Week.

Cvitanich comes to the NASL after a strong career in Europe and Mexico. He had great success with, French club, Nice. In 69 appearances, Cvitanich netted 30 goals. In two stints with Liga MX side Pachuca, he scored 15 goals in 46 matches.

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North American Soccer League Stories from May 5, 2016


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